1 - 10 of 384 results for: MUSIC

An introductory exploration of how and why music is a pervasive and fundamental aspect of human existence across cultures. The class will introduce aspects of music perception and cognition as well as anthropological and cultural considerations.

An archaeological investigation into a basic human experience by way of the most ubiquitous musical genre: love songs. From the Biblical Solomon to 12th-century troubadours to Taylor Swift, romantic love has remained a central topic for songs. Yet conceptions of love---not to mention sex, gender, and sexuality---have undergone radical changes. How have love songs resisted or enabled these, and others? How has the form survived and evolved? Through close listening and careful readings of history, philosophy, and psychoanalysis, we will grapple with love's place in nature, society, and song. All levels and forms of musical expertise are welcome.

This is an introductory course in the classical music of India, with emphasis on learning to listen to and appreciate Indian classical music concerts. It will cover a broad overview of the two main genres of Indian classical music - Carnatic and Hindustani. We will have several in-class demonstrations of instruments unique to the Indian classical music tradition. Class meetings will include discussions of landmark performances and artists as well as fundamentals of this music style, such as Raaga (melody), Taala (rhythm), song structure, and improvisation.

Explore the evolution of symphonic literature from 1750 through the present, while honing listening skills and preparing for live concert experiences. Designed to fulfill the breadth requirement for aesthetic and interpretive inquiry, this course traces the symphony's history through works by prominent composers. Discussions will focus on interpretive strategies, formal conventions, and the changing culture of performance practice. The ability to read music is not required.

The lasting appeal of opera as a lavishly hybrid genre from the 1600s to the present. How and why does opera set its stories to music? What is operatic singing? Who is the audience? How do words, music, voices, movement, and staging collaborate in different operatic eras and cultures? The class will include performances at the San Francisco Opera and other local companies.

Taught by Stanford Taiko members. Techniques and history. No experience necessary. May be repeated for credit. This course was initiated by Mitchell Fukumoto and Stanford Taiko.

Open to majors and non-majors. This course is designed for students who are considering careers in performance or the music industry to explore their personal and artistic identity. Weekly guest speakers provide real world insight on topics related to professional advancement.

Open to majors and non-majors. This course is designed for students who are interested in professional opportunities in classical music, whether conservatory bound or just exploring possible careers in classical music performance or related interests. Students will examine a wide range of entrepreneurial tools to help develop their personal and artistic identities. The class discussion covers a broad scope of conservatory topics, a survey of professions in classical music, and entrepreneurial skills. Guest speakers are invited to provide real world insight on topics related to professional advancement.

Ethnomusicologists study music in human life. Music is with us as we articulate and define social identities -- punk rocker, student, Japanese-American, member of a sorority, Catholic, radical, etc. --and as we acquire new identities through rites of passage such as weddings, graduations, and initiation ceremonies. Many of life's most intense moments are accompanied or created by music, but music can also be part of the everyday, with us as we work, move, and socialize. This course is about what music does in human life and what it means to participants. In other words, it is about the myriad ways that music makes us human. We will address musical meanings and practices in selected regions of Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. As you encounter music in an increasingly connected world, this course will provide you with a new awareness of musical diversity and of the social implications of music making. To satisfy a Ways requirement, this course must be taken for at least 3 units.